Question

Using your vast knowledge of thermochemistry, explain why C, diamond does not spontaneously convert to C graphite despite thermodynamics predicting that it should do so. Dramands Changing n bowh to arophile e mar NI CHEm hat are CFCs? Explain theif importance to the chemistry of Earth's atmosphere. C es e Chlero lurocaron has absorb heat and re lease

Answer 1

Diamonds can’t and won’t turn into graphite, at least practically. Conversely it is possible for you to turn graphite into diamonds under extreme heat and pressure.

Graphite is heated to 1500 °C and compressed to a pressure of 15 million kPa, graphite becomes DIAMOND. This happens because this HPHT (High Pressure, High Temp) method breaks the hexagonal C rings in graphite and rebuilds it into 3D diamonds.

This is also the reason why Diamonds cannot become Graphite. Bonds in diamond require an even more higher pressure and an even more more more higher temperature to break and reform. It requires such high temperature that it is rationally impossible not just on Earth but also on all other planets in the Solar System. So while, it is theoretically possible for you to do it (since both are allotropes of the very same thing), it is practically impossible.

Like a medieval European ballad, you can turn the lowly Graphite into a knightly Diamond rather easily but the stubborn noble-born Diamond always refuses to step down from its place on the Carbon Social Hierarchy. And this is precisely the reason